Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways. When an asthma attack occurs, airway muscles become tight, and the lining of the airways swell, which reduces the amount of air that passes into the lungs. Asthma attacks can be triggered by certain foods. Dietary modifications can help reduce asthma attacks.
Fruits and Vegetables
Patients with asthma should eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, according to Mayo Clinic. Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants such as vitamin C, A and E, which can protect lung cells from damage and also strengthen the immune system. Fruits and vegetables rich in natural antioxidants include strawberries, oranges, pineapples, kale, broccoli, cabbage, pumpkin and green peppers.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that can help reduce inflammation of airways in patients with asthma, according to Mayo Clinic. Sources of omega-3 fatty acids include cold water fish such as mackerel, sardines, herring, salmon, halibut and tuna. Omega-3 fatty acids are also found in plant oils such as soybean oil, canola oil, pumpkin seed oil, flaxseed oil and walnut oil.
Foods to Avoid
Patients with asthma should avoid foods with sulfite food additives because they can trigger asthma attacks, according to Mayo Clinic. Examples of foods containing sulfite preservatives include pickles, shrimp, frozen shrimp, wine and dried fruits. Patients allergic to peanuts and shellfish should also avoid these foods because they can trigger asthma attacks.
Lifestyle Factors
Patients with asthma should maintain a healthy weight by eating healthy foods and exercising regularly. Being overweight worsens asthma symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. Regular exercise also helps strengthen the lungs and heart, which reduces asthma symptoms. Patients should wear a face mask while exercising in cold weather because cold air can trigger asthma symptoms.
Symptoms of Asthma
Asthma causes recurring symptoms such as shortness of breath, audible whistling or wheezing, chest tightness, coughing that often occurs at night or early in the morning, pulling of the the skin between ribs when breathing, nasal flaring and chest pain, according to Mayo Clinic. Complications of asthma include sleeping problems, severe breathing problems and death.
